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"You are very ready to speak without being interrogated,"

interrupted the lady, with an expression of anger on her

countenance, which changed it almost to deformity. "Silence; I

have not to be informed that parents have always an answer

prepared in the name of their children."

Agnes drew back mortified, and the father guardian signified to

Lucy by a look, as well as by a movement of the head, that now

was the time to rouse her courage, and not leave her poor mother

in the dilemma. "Reverend lady," said she, "what my mother has

told you is the truth. I willingly engaged myself to the poor

youth (and here she became covered with blushes)-- Pardon me this

boldness; but I would not have you think ill of my mother. And as

to this lord (God forgive him!) I would rather die than fall into

his hands. And if you do this deed of charity, be certain,

signora, none will pray for you more heartily than those whom you

have thus sheltered."